At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts through direct mail, email, and online campaigns.
- Company: Join Merton College, a historic and vibrant community in Oxford.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, free meals, gym access, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on fundraising while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Looking for innovative and enthusiastic individuals ready to take the next step in fundraising.
- Other info: Interviews will be held from 29th September 2025; apply by 22nd September 2025.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Job Description
We have a vacancy for an innovative and enthusiastic fundraiser to join our Development team.
This is a pivotal role within the Development Office. The successful candidate will lead the College’s regular giving programme, increasing participation levels and raising funds through targeted direct mail and email appeals, telephone fundraising appeals, and online campaigns. The postholder will also develop the College’s range of fundraising literature as well as managing gift processing and reporting.
This is an exciting opportunity for a confident fundraiser ready to take the next step in their career and make a significant contribution to the College’s goals by taking responsibility for further developing Merton’s fundraising programmes.
Merton College
Merton is one of the oldest and most beautiful colleges in Oxford, tucked away behind the High Street, with glorious views across Christ Church Meadows but within easy reach of other University buildings and the city centre. We are a vibrant, diverse, inclusive community with an exceptional record of academic success.
The College community currently comprises around 590 students (320 undergraduate and 270 graduate), alongside some 70 Fellows, 50 other academic staff, and over 100 members of support staff. We admit around 95 undergraduate students each year and a comparable number of graduate students across a range of subjects in the Humanities, Social Sciences, and Sciences.
Working hours
Weekly hours of work for a full-time post are 35 hours, normally between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday in the office with an unpaid lunch break. There is flexibility for the postholder to start earlier or later in order to travel to College and some home working may be possible in this role. However, the postholder will need to have a flexible approach to working hours in order to support some activities that are outside these times.
Our excellent benefits include:
- membership of the University of Oxford Staff Pension Scheme
- 30 days’ holiday per year plus Bank holidays
- free medical insurance
- cycle-to-work and electric car schemes
- loans for the purchase of seasonal travel passes
- free meals in College when on duty
- free gym and organised activities i.e. yoga and circuit training
- free car parking
Please visit our website to read more about this exciting opportunity and for details of how to apply.
Closing date: 9.00 am on 22nd September 2025.
It is anticipated that interviews will be held from week commencing 29th September 2025.
Merton College is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Regular Giving Fundraising Officer employer: Merton College
Contact Detail:
Merton College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Regular Giving Fundraising Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Merton College's history and values. Understanding the college's unique culture and mission will help you tailor your approach during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their fundraising goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Merton College, especially those in fundraising roles. They can provide valuable insights into the college's fundraising strategies and what qualities they value in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples of successful fundraising campaigns you've been involved in. Highlight your experience with direct mail, email appeals, and online campaigns, as these are key components of the role you're applying for.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends in fundraising and donor engagement. Being knowledgeable about innovative fundraising techniques will show that you're proactive and ready to bring fresh ideas to Merton's regular giving programme.
We think you need these skills to ace Regular Giving Fundraising Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Regular Giving Fundraising Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for fundraising and your innovative ideas for increasing participation in the College’s regular giving programme. Be sure to mention any previous fundraising successes or relevant projects.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous roles in fundraising or related fields. Include specific examples of campaigns you’ve led or contributed to, and quantify your achievements where possible to demonstrate your impact.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a fundraising role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merton College
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Familiarise yourself with various fundraising techniques, especially those related to regular giving. Be prepared to discuss how you would implement targeted direct mail and email appeals, as well as telephone fundraising strategies.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Regular Giving Fundraising Officer, strong communication skills are essential. Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently, and be ready to demonstrate how you can engage potential donors through compelling narratives.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for the Cause
Express genuine enthusiasm for Merton College and its mission. Research the college's history and values, and be prepared to explain why you want to contribute to its fundraising efforts.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the college's current fundraising programmes and future goals. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand how you can make a significant impact.